FENCE VIEWERS

 

To the Board of Selectmen:

 

  The Fence Viewers welcomed the opportunity to help those who asked for advice during 2004 concerning their fence and boundary difficulties.

 

  We encouraged all parties, including fence companies installing new fences, to check out local requirements.  Please review and compare your current deed and surveys with the assessor’s office maps to determine the current lot lines.  Residents cannot convey or extend beyond what they own.

 

  The following are a few simple guidelines, but not the only ones, required:

 

1.      With an over ¼ solid or 4 foot high, (i.e. stockade or picket) fence, the setback should be at least 3 feet from the property line;

 

2.      With an under ¼ solid, (i.e. wire, ranch-style or chain link) fence, the setback should be at least 6 inches from the property line;

 

3.      Stonewalls, other than retaining walls, should be setback 3 feet from the property line;

 

4.      Shrubs used as a fence or barrier should be setback 3 feet from the property line.

 

  Please remember that while two current neighbors may agree with an unwritten and amicable solution concerning their mutual boundary line, the next owner of either property may not recognize the plan.  So, please, remember to abide by the Town regulations from the beginning.

 

   We can discuss these matters with your or you could call the Town Building Inspector (525-5429) regarding the Town and State requirements, rules and regulations.

 

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

William L. Speight

Donald T. Heenan

  FENCE VIEWERS

 

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